A virtual private network infrastructure is provided which enables private network communications over a shared network. The infrastructure includes a shared network partitioned into at least two separate areas. A first router is connected to a first area and configured to distribute first router VPN information across the first area. The first router VPN information includes a VPN identifier which is assigned to the first router. It also includes a second router connected between the first area and a second area which is configured to distribute second router VPN information across the first area. The second router VPN information includes a VPN identifier which is assigned to the second router which is the same VPN identifier assigned to the first router. A method of configuring a virtual private network infrastructure is also provided which enables private network communications over a shared network. The method includes partitioning a shared network into multiple areas and connecting a virtual router between at least two of the areas. A VPN identifier is assigned to the virtual router. A link is created between a first private network router and a first shared network router which is connected to a first area. The VPN identifier assigned to the virtual router is also assigned to the first shared network router and the VPN identifier is communicated between the first shared network router and the virtual router.